Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-11-02 Origin: Site
If you buy African hardwood, you’ve probably felt this shift already.
CEMAC’s full log export ban for 2028 is no longer distant news. Cameroon keeps tightening the list of species banned as logs, while Congo-Brazzaville is rolling out stricter traceability checks. On paper, some log permits still exist, but in my opinion, this window is closing faster than most buyers expect. Many importers are still clinging to the old cheap-log model, and that’s the biggest mistake right now.
Local mills in Central Africa are growing, yet quality is hit-or-miss. Some do proper kiln drying and consistent grading; others rush orders to cash in before rules change. I’ve seen too many buyers save a little money upfront, only to receive mixed-grade stock with moisture issues. Cheap sawn timber can become your most expensive cargo.
Demand stays split. Iroko, Padouk and Afrormosia are still steady favourites for outdoor and furniture jobs. Middle Eastern clients keep picking durable red hardwoods, while European buyers are far pickier about paperwork and certification. Price volatility is not the main risk today — traceability and stable grade are.
My honest advice: Stop building your supply chain around logs. Start locking in reliable sawn timber suppliers you can verify. Keep 1 or 2 alternative species ready, because restrictions can shift overnight.
About SHD WOOD We are an African hardwood exporter with 17 years on the ground in this trade. We work directly with licensed concessions and mills across Central and West Africa, focusing on legal, traceable sawn timber including Iroko, Padouk, Afrormosia and Movingui. Before every shipment, we check grading, moisture content and all required documents. We don’t chase quick, risky deals; we focus on steady supply for furniture factories, flooring makers and construction buyers worldwide.
If you need current stock updates or a quote, get in touch.
WhatsApp / WeChat: +86 13554764997
Email: sales@shdwood.com
